Member Spotlight: Kate Albee
Each month we try to feature a Chapter member, asking them about SMPS and more. Find out below how Kate got into the A/E/C industry, her favorite book, and how she feels about being named Marketer of the Year!
Kate Albee
Marketing Director
Quezada Architecture
What led you to the A/E/C industry?
I have a Bachelor of Architecture from Cal Poly SLO, but I quickly discovered that the path to licensure was not for me. After a few years doing graphic design and marketing consulting for some local businesses, and then working in marketing for a craft brewery, I discovered I could combine all the things I loved into one career.
Why did you join SMPS and/or why do you continue to be a member?
I worked at Gensler for three years where I had an amazing support system in my team and tons of global resources. When I made the switch to a boutique firm, I felt I needed additional support in order to advance in my career. SMPS was the perfect forum to learn from the best, find like-minded peers, and contribute to the industry in meaningful ways.
What motivated you to submit for Marketer of the Year?
I firmly believe that Marketers are so much more than just support/administrative staff. While that is a part of the equation, they deserve to be recognized for the huge impact they make on their firms. I am always encouraging my peers (and bosses!) to submit for awards and take up more space, so I figured it was time to take my own advice.
What was your reaction when you got the news that you are this year’s Marketer of the Year? Shocked! And very proud. There are a lot of incredible marketing professionals in this city that I greatly admire, so I had no idea what to expect. But at the end of the day, I’m grateful to my Principals who let me take ownership of my work and trust my expertise. This award is a win for all of us.
What’s your favorite job task?
Empowering and teaching others – whether it’s about networking styles, interview coaching, or making the right introductions. I also love doing research on new industry trends or sectors.
Do you work from home, in the office, or a hybrid?
We are currently doing a hybrid work week – three days in the office and two at home. This works well for me – I’m an extreme extrovert so I love being around my coworkers, and the two days at home give me some balance.
Any hobbies?
When I’m not at the office, I love to sail. There’s nothing better than a beautiful day on the bay, doing laps around Angel Island, and then watching the sunset with a beer at Sam’s in Tiburon.
Favorite Book?
Travels with Charley in Search of America by John Steinbeck. I’ve always had a travel bug and I’ve done at least five cross-country road trips – one of them alone with my dog, Pliny. This book captures the monotony, but also the humor and curiosity, that comes with meeting strangers far from home.
